05 Sep 2009
The United Nations has sought greater international cooperation in controlling the increasing incidents of piracy near the Indian Ocean.

"The war against piracy off Somali waters will not be won unless more emphasis is laid on containing pirates on land before they reach the sea," a UN military advisor said.

Military advisor to the UN Political Office on Somalia (UNOPS), Colonel Victor Gamor, made the remarks at a regional maritime forum currently underway in the Kenyan capital, Mombasa.

"A total of 5,100 foreign troops are stationed in Somalia, while at least 8,000 were needed," Gamor said.

According to Colonel Gamor, the high numbers of firearms flowing into Somalia have encouraged piracy despite an international campaign to eradicate it.


presstv